Price trends were narrowly mixed in framing lumber trading that was subdued but still liquid. While most buyers avoided owning any more than they had to have, a perception that prices represented good values led some to cover immediate needs with little hesitation. Wholesalers focused on selling from their lists or worked back to back. Producers walked a line between resisting counters and not letting serious buyers off the phone without getting an order.






Panel market

Structural panel markets shook off the dull pace of recent weeks and kicked into a higher gear. The tone of the OSB market improved as the week progressed. While traders could point to no particular catalyst, dealers and distribution yards were less reluctant to cover immediate needs. In Southern Pine plywood, momentum from last week's turnaround generated steady sales and higher prices. Most sheathing prices gained $20-25. Western Fir plywood sales from distribution intensified Tuesday in the Midwest and Northeast, igniting a round of replenishment purchases from the mills Wednesday and Thursday.